Q&A for How to Activate a Visa Gift Card

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Can you buy lottery tickets with it?

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Yes, your Visa gift card should be usable for any purchase where a regular Visa credit or debit card would be accepted.

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Question

My card is activated, but I cannot pay online with it.

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Make sure the card is registered (in addition to being activated). Call the customer service number or g to the card issuer's website to enter the card info as well as your name, billing address, and contact information to register it.

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Question

Is there a charge for a Visa gift card? Can I order one online to mail to another recipient?

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Depending on the balance and where you purchase it from, there may be a one-time fee as low as $2.95 at purchase. Yes, you can ship a physical card to another recipient.

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Question

I was given $100.00 visa debit card. When I call the number on back I can't get it activated. I need help.

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Call Visa directly at (866) 511-GIFT for gift card assistance. They will be able to figure out what is blocking the card and issue a new card if necessary.

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Question

When I try to use my gift card visa/debit card on line it asks for a code. What is the code? Where do I get it?

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It's probably referring to the 3-digit Security Code (CVV number) on the back of the card. You usually need this, the expiration date, the card number, and a billing zip code to use Visa gift cards online.

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Can I use the card at gas pump with out going in the to the station?

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Most likely. A Visa gift card should work anywhere Visa is accepted, so unless the gas station doesn't accept Visa cards, it should work.

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Question

I can’t find my PIN number on Visa gift card.

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The PIN is usually a 4-digit number or code that you create yourself when you activate/register the card. Some cards may come with a predetermined PIN (check the packaging or instructions letter since it's most likely not printed on the card).

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Question

Does the activation fee deduct from it's balance?

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No, the fee is added on top of the balance at purchase and does not take away from the balance on the card.

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Question

Can I give my card to another if have activated the card?

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Once it's activated, anyone who has physical possession of the card (or the card number to use online) can use it, just like a credit card. However, their purchase may get declined if the retailer asks to see identification along with the card.

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Question

How long after activation do I have to wait for the card to be usable?

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It should be usable immediately after activation.

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Question

If I had provided Visa Vanilla card info. and 3 digit code on back of card to someone and didn't receive the service that card was to pay for., how do I see if the card has been spent?

Community Answer

Put the card info into Onevanilla.com and it will give you a summary of what has been done with the funds inside.

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Question

I just received a $50 gift card and the # on the card will not activate, so I can use it.

Community Answer

If it was bought right before you received it ,there's a 1 hour period for the card to officially set up before you can use it. Try again later. If not, call Visa about it.

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